SEMA 2018: Honda Rugged Open Air Concept revealed

By Tristan Tancredi, 01 Nov 2018News

ALL eyes were cast to the Honda stand at the 2018 SEMA Show, with the Japanese brand debuting its Rugged Open Air Concept on the first day of the Vegas event.

Merging the best bits of two production Hondas – the Ridgeline pick-up and the Pioneer 1000 side-by-side – the Rugged Open Air is an ultimate weapon should tarmac turn to dust.

Designed and developed by Honda R&D Americas, the Baja-storming concept utilises a rugged, modified Ridgeline body and suspension set-up. The tray and tailgate panels are modelled after the Pioneer side-by-side, and the doors are ripped straight from the Pioneer and plonked either side.

The interior is Ridgeline, but it’s been modified with a bunch of Pioneer accessories for outdoor use, including a Pioneer 1000 steering wheel and Civic Type R seats clothed in waterproof Pioneer 1000 material. Paint has also been applied to the instrument panel to protect it from sun, sand or spray.